As a mum and family photographer, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible juggling act that mums perform daily. Balancing work, family, and personal commitments can feel like trying to catch a falling star. It’s a constant struggle, and I’ve certainly faced my fair share of challenges.
Before I discovered the importance of work-life balance, I was a woman on a mission. I was determined to be the perfect mum, the perfect wife, and the perfect professional. But this relentless pursuit of perfection left me feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and unfulfilled. I realised that I was sacrificing my own well-being in an attempt to meet everyone else’s expectations.
One of the biggest challenges for mums is finding time for themselves. Between caring for children, managing household chores, and meeting work deadlines, there’s often little time left for personal pursuits. This can lead to feelings of resentment, burnout, and a decline in mental and physical health.
I know firsthand how difficult it can be to prioritise self-care, especially when you have young children. But it’s essential to remember that you can’t pour from an empty cup. If you’re not taking care of yourself, you won’t be able to properly care for your family.
The Balancing Act: Challenges Faced by Mums in Achieving Work-Life Balance
Being a mum is like trying to juggle flaming swords while riding a unicycle blindfolded. There’s always something to do, someone to care for, and a million deadlines to meet. It’s a constant balancing act, and let’s be honest, sometimes it feels like you’re teetering on the edge of a cliff.
Finding time for ourselves amidst the responsibilities of motherhood is always a struggle. It’s like trying to squeeze an extra hour into a 24-hour day. Between the endless laundry, the never-ending dishes, and the constant demands of our little ones, there’s barely enough time to eat a sandwich, let alone take a bubble bath.
And then there’s the guilt. The guilt of putting ourselves first, the guilt of not being enough, the guilt of feeling overwhelmed. It’s like being trapped in a never-ending cycle of self-doubt and exhaustion.
But here’s the thing: we deserve better. We deserve to take care of ourselves, to prioritise our needs, and to enjoy a little bit of “me time.” Because when we’re happy and healthy, we’re better able to handle the challenges of motherhood. So, let’s raise a glass to all the amazing mums out there, juggling flaming swords, riding unicycles, and somehow managing to keep it all together.
Rediscovering My Active Self
I was 40 when I got back into hockey. It was a funny moment when I realised I wouldn’t go to the gym down the road but would drive to Redcliffe for a 9 PM game on a Monday night!!! After 10 years of playing women’s masters and loving it but not being very good at it 🤣😜, it became too hard on the body and I thought my sporting days were over. Until… I discovered pickleball and am now happily obsessed with it.
These photos are from a recent tournament in Toowoomba where we made it to the finals in women’s doubles, playing against our girlfriends and being umpired by another. It’s a whole new life, healthy, active, fun and yes, wearing matching outfits because why not, meeting fabulous people. I hope to see you all on the court soon.
As my three daughters have grown older and more independent, I’ve had the opportunity to rediscover myself and my passions. I’ve learned that it’s okay to put myself first, and that doing so doesn’t make me a bad mum.
One of the ways I’ve been able to achieve a better work-life balance is by making time for exercise. I’ve found that regular physical activity helps me to reduce stress, improve my mood, and boost my energy levels. Even if it’s just a short walk or a quick workout at home, making time for exercise is essential for my overall well-being.
Practical Tips for Mums to Put Into Action
Here are some practical tips for mums with kids to achieve work-life balance:
- Set realistic expectations: Don’t try to be perfect at everything. It’s okay to let go of some of the smaller stuff and focus on what’s truly important.
- Delegate tasks: Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your partner, family, or friends.
- Make time for yourself: Schedule time for activities that you enjoy, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day.
- Prioritise sleep: Getting enough sleep is essential for both physical and mental health.
- Practice self-care: Take care of your body and mind by eating healthy, staying hydrated, and managing stress.
And of course, always find time to have fun with your family. Create memories that will last a lifetime. Your family can be a lot but they can also be the best source of healing and motivation. If you and your family are looking for new ways to bond, checkout my availability for a weekday or weekend shoot and let’s capture the magic that is your family’s perfect chaos. 🥰 Follow me on Instagram for more inspiration!
